Legarda: Enrich Our Festivals, Preserve Our Culture

May 13, 2012

SENATOR LOREN LEGARDA TODAY ENCOURAGED FILIPINOS TO CARRY ON WITH THE TRADITION OF CELEBRATING FESTIVALS IN TOWNS AND PROVINCES AS PART OF EFFORTS TO BRING CULTURE CLOSER TO THE PEOPLE.
Legarda, Chair of the Senate Committee on Cultural Communities, made the statement as she joined Surigaonons in celebrating the 111th Founding Anniversary of the Province of Surigao del Norte.
“The conduct of grand and vibrant fiestas is part of the rich culture of the Philippines. We must continue to enrich these celebrations, which not only remind us of the history of our towns and provinces, but also unite people and communities as they work together in making our festivals successful,” Legarda pointed out.
The Senator explained that Philippine festivals are effective tools in preserving our culture since these are conducted every year and involve everyone in the community including the young citizens.
She added that fiestas also help boost local economy through tourism.
“Since Filipinos enjoy these fiestas in their towns and provinces, these celebrations become effective channels in bringing our culture closer to the people, especially to the youth,” she stressed.
“I urge all Filipinos to take that extra step of knowing more about the story behind the festivals in our country and take to heart the traditions passed on by our forefathers as these cultural treasures constitute the Filipino soul,” Legarda concluded.